As of 2010 there were 40.4 million people over 65 years old in America—that’s one of eight Americans. As the American population ages, more attention and research is being focused on how the foods we eat will increase our longevity and help us age more successfully.
We have found some foods that, when included in our meal plans daily, can help us stay healthy.
Food and Their Impact on Health
- Antioxidants are substances that seek and destroy free radicals in our cells. Free radicals can damage our cells—antioxidants can protect and repair damage. Vitamin A, C, E and selenium containing foods are sources of natural antioxidants. Antioxidants are also thought to boost our immune systems.
- Blueberries and other highly colored foods forming a rainbow on our plates are best sources of nutrition including antioxidants. Blueberries may also improve our memories.
- Omega 3 fatty acids, the unsaturated fat found in fish and supplemental fish oil, has been linked to lowering cholesterol, reducing heart arrhythmia, and reducing joint inflammation. It is recommended to eat fish at least twice a week.
- Phytochemicals such as flavonoids, lucein, lycopene and lignins contain antioxidants. Common food sources are soy, red wine, pomegranate, cranberries, dark green leafy vegetables, tomatoes, flaxseed, oatmeal and barley. Phytochemicals seem to function better from food sources rather than supplements.
- Garlic may prevent cancer and heart disease. A clove a week may lower cholesterol too.
- Ginger is used to treat arthritis, joint stiffness, muscle pain, nausea and diarrhea.
- Water! Beneficial for skin and body so drink 6-8 glasses each day!
Some of these foods are easy to incorporate into a meal and are tasty too. Hopefully by including some or all of these choices you can live a long and healthy life!
